3 Ways to Have Work-Life Harmony

506 Words | 2-minute read | by Rebecca James

“How do you find a meaningful work-life balance?” is the number one question I am asked. It is a common challenge for leaders, particularly women. Like many others, I’ve had to manage a household and bear the entire mental load that comes along with it: juggling 5 schedules, schoolwork, appointments, activities, projects, bills, sports, menus, shopping, laundry, organizing, (insert your list here) and most importantly – being there to listen to what your children are thinking about and how they are feeling. And this does not include maintaining scores of other relationships.

So, how do you find it? You must be intentional. Here are the three ways I share with them.

The Give and Take 

I am not a fan of the work-life-balance phrase. It connotes that everything is equal all the time. I always envision the hanging balance scales with the work and life baskets on opposite sides completely even—impossible. Having a work-life harmony approach allows you to give more to one than the other at different times or seasons without guilt. I’ve found a tremendous amount of joy in my family, and similarly my work is also a joyful part of who I am every day. They are both life callings. Having harmony signals that your work life and home life are mutually complimentary to one another, in tune with one another. To achieve any sort of harmony, it is crucial that there is support for both work and personal from each side. This requires good communication on your end.

The Art of Essentialism 

At work this means staying focused on the things that have the greatest impact on your organization—your highest payoff activities. Saying no or delegating the many little things that hijack your schedule helps you avoid an “undisciplined pursuit of the nonessential”. As leaders we fear not doing enough and we want to lead by example. The paradox is that doing less actually makes you much more productive. So, identify your highest payoff activities and those are your priorities. Empower your team, your children, and your spouse (or support system). Do not try to do it all by yourself.  You can read more about this concept in Greg McKeown’s book, Essentialism, The Disciplined Pursuit of Less.

A "Be Here Now" Mindset

I continually remind myself of this phrase. When I am with my family, I try to be here now, fully present and not distracted in thought, social media, emails, and texts. There are times when situations arise and harmony needs to take place, like closing a big deal at 7pm and time is of the essence, but that is an exception to the rule. For many of us who are competitive and driven, having a be-here-now mindset requires discipline. If you are like me, you will fail some days, but you can get back up and do better. After some time, it will become more of a habit. Remind yourself of this phrase daily, say it to yourself, put down your phone or laptop when you come home…be here now.